Big changes are coming to the federal food stamp program, formally known as SNAP. Starting this November, the sweeping reforms under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will reshape food assistance across the U.S., cutting $187 billion in funding through 2034 — one of the most significant shifts in decades.
Stricter Work Requirements
The law expands the work requirement for SNAP recipients. Adults must now work at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving benefits beyond three months in any three-year period — and the age range has jumped from 18–54 to 18–64. Exemptions have been slashed, with only parents of children 13 and under qualifying. Previously protected groups, including homeless individuals, veterans, and young adults aging out of foster care, no longer have automatic exemptions. States may apply for waivers if unemployment exceeds 10 percent, with Alaska and Hawaii receiving automatic exceptions at higher thresholds.
Participation Cuts Expected
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates these rules will reduce SNAP enrollment by roughly 2.4 million participants per month through 2034. While tribal communities gain some flexibility, the overall number of households receiving benefits is projected to drop sharply from the current 41 million monthly participants.
Tighter Immigrant Eligibility
The new legislation restricts SNAP to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, eliminating prior exceptions for humanitarian parolees, long-term residents, and other non-citizens. About 90,000 people per month could lose benefits under the tightened immigration rules, prompting criticism from groups like LULAC. The White House defends the move, citing taxpayer protections and reduced program fraud.
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